The Sandbox suffers hacker attack and users are exposed to malware

One of the most popular metaverse platforms today, The Sandbox, made a statement this Thursday (2) claiming to have been the target of a hacker attack. According to the company, an unauthorized person had access to an employee's computer and sent a series of hyperlinks with malware (malicious software to steal information) to people around the world.

Through the company's statement, the attacker used one of the employees' email addresses to send messages to users as if it were another routine warning from the platform. However, in the content of the text, the hacker placed links that led to malware*. Now, the company claims that anyone who clicked on the content could have their machine hacked and their personal information leaked. The problem was diagnosed on February 26th by The Sandbox. 

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In an email titled “The Sandbox Game (PURELAND) Access”, the attacker encourages users, registered on the platform's email list, to click on links leading to malware. The company, after discovering what had happened, sent another series of emails to recipients informing them of what had happened. Now, the platform is trying to reduce the damage from the problem by instructing those affected to download and install a reliable antivirus to scan the machine for possible malware.

*Malware is a generic term for any type of malicious software designed to harm or exploit any programmable device, service, or network. Cybercriminals often use it to extract data that can be used from victims for financial gain. (Source: Mcfee)

Some instructions from The Sandbox to users:

 Use strong passwords and implement two-factor authentication to keep your accounts as secure as possible.

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  • Do not click on any of the hyperlinks in the email indicated above or in any other email that you suspect to be illegitimate.
  • Install and run a reputable antivirus program to identify and remove any malware as quickly as possible.
  • Consult an IT professional and consider formatting your computer if you suspect it has been infected with malware.

The employee who had his PC hacked had his passwords and access to The Sandbox reset. Finally, anyone experiencing problems arising from the attack, the company advises them to get in touch via the platform's email [email protected], or on Twitter: @TheSandboxGame.

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